Eat, drink, and be merry!

09Jun
So I commend enjoyment, for there is nothing better for people under the sun than to eat, and drink, and enjoy themselves, for this will go with them in their toil through the days of life that God gives them under the sun… Go, eat your bread with enjoyment, and drink your wine with a merry heart; for God has long ago approved what you do. Let your garments always be white; do not let oil be lacking on your head. Enjoy life with the wife whom you love, all the days of your vain life that are given you under the sun, because that is your portion in life and in your toil at which you toil under the sun.
-Ecclesiastes 8:15....9:7


I love this passage. It reminds me to be joyful and love this life of mine. I feel like New Orleanians embody this passage beautifully. We truly eat, drink, and are merry. Although I could name any number of holidays we celebrate, I immediately thought of Jazz Fest: we love listening to live music under the sun, eating delicious specialties only available at Jazz Fest, drinking delicious drinks only available at Jazz Fest, and even when it rains, it doesn’t dampen our celebration. I always joke that if you’re bored in New Orleans, it’s your own fault.


Life is hard enough. Why make it harder being miserable? I literally have never understood people who are in the “manufacturing business”. They have everything they need in their lives to be happy and fulfilled. They have food in their pantry, a bed to sleep on, meaningful work, loving friends and family, and yet, they “manufacture unhappiness.” Nothing satisfies them. Nothing lights their face up. Everything is a disappointment. And trust me, you’ll hear all about it if you give them five minutes.


Why not enjoy what we can, when we can? If God didn’t want food and drinks to taste so good, they wouldn’t! I think we can show God our appreciation and gratitude for our lives simply by living and enjoying what has been provided to us. Have a good time, dance under the sun, love who you love, and of course, eat, drink, and be merry!


Today, what brings you joy? What lights your face up?


Musical Reflection - Lie in Our Graves - Dave Matthews


Dear God, I am grateful today for food I love, drinks I love, and people I love. Thank you especially for New Orleans, and may I always be a New Orleanian wherever I am.

Amen.

Love

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